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Mayor Houston: “We Need All The Help We Can Get”

Springfield Mayor Mike Houston is asking people to come forward with information about 27 shootings that have happened within the past two months.

“We need all the help we can get,” says Houston.

Houston says any information is vital.

“Given to the right people and our ability to put our resources together, it can have a major impact in terms of what we’re dealing with here in the city of Springfield.”

Police are investigating a string of shootings across the city that all appear to be connected. Chief Kenny Winslow says the same two groups are likely involved, but wouldn’t say if they’re gangs, family members, classmates or how they’re connected.

“We’re not ruling out anything,” says Winslow.

He believes those involved are local, but it’s unclear where they’re getting the guns used in these crimes — he thinks they were probably purchased legally as well as illegally.

The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department, FBI, ATF, Illinois State Police and others have offered resources to help catch those responsible.

Police have interviewed several people of interest but no one’s been charged. Houston, Winslow and Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser reiterated those convicted will be prosecuted to the “fullest extent of the law.”

No one’s been seriously injured so far, but city officials say it’s only a matter of time.